North Rim Parkway Closed for the Season

The North Rim Parkway (State Route 67), the main route for visitors to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, is closing today (Monday, December 3), the Arizona Department of Transportation announced last week.

Because visitor accommodations at the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park close during the winter, ADOT does not clear snow from SR 67 during that time. The route will reopen around mid-May, in time for the resumption of North Rim visitor services. The Canyon's South Rim is open year-round.

Several other state routes are slated for closure in the coming weeks, ADOT said in a news release. Those routes — state routes 261, 273 and 473, all of which lead to lakes in the White Mountains of Eastern Arizona — are scheduled to close December 31, but they could close earlier, depending on weather.

The department reminded motorists traveling in snow country to take precautions, such as checking weather and road conditions before heading out; slowing down and driving defensively; and packing an emergency kit, a fully charged cellphone, extra clothing, blankets, water and snacks.

For more tips on winter driving, visit www.azdot.gov/KnowSnow.